Answer :
To find the pH of a solution, we use the formula:
[tex]\text{pH} = -\log [\text{H}^+][/tex]
where [tex][\text{H}^+][/tex] is the concentration of hydrogen ions in moles per liter (mol L⁻¹).
In this case, the concentration of [tex]\text{H}^+[/tex] ions is [tex]2.3 \times 10^{-2} \text{ mol L}^{-1}[/tex].
Let's calculate the pH:
[tex]\text{pH} = -\log(2.3 \times 10^{-2})[/tex]
Calculating this using a calculator, we get:
[tex]\text{pH} \approx 1.64[/tex]
Therefore, the pH of the solution is approximately 1.64.
So, the correct answer is D. 1.64.
The pH scale is a measure of the acidity or basicity of an aqueous solution. It typically ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. A pH less than 7 indicates an acidic solution, which is consistent with our result here, confirming that the solution is acidic.